Milan vs. Venice? Need advice
 

Hello everyone,<BR>My best friend and I are travelling to Italy over Thanksgiving week. (We have not been to Europe before). We will be there for 6 days/6 nights, possibly 7 days/7 nights. We are flying to Rome and plan to stay there (got a good deal on airfare/hotel package). We have already decided to take the train and visit Florence/Pisa for 2 days. We figure we can see Rome in 3-4 days and that leaves us an extra day. We are debating Milan vs. Venice as a daytrip (5am train depart from Rome and 8pm train depart from whichever city we choose). <BR><BR>We would appreciate any advice on choosing between these two cities. We are both 29 year old females with an interest in Renaissance and Baroque art and architecture, but not shopping, and my friend is a devout Roman Catholic, so churches and such are a plus (yes, we realize that art, architecture and churches are in both cities). We are not interested in seeing the countryside on this trip. Maybe that will help you with advice. <BR><BR>If you think it is too much to squeeze in, or would suggest another city, please advise that too.<BR><BR>Thanks,<BR>Holly

For that amount of time I would suggest Milan - the duomo is magnificant. If you go to Venice and have to leave after one afternoon you will kill yourself. ;-)

Venice.

I've lived in Milano and although the Duomo is wonderful and the city has some other attractions, I would not go out of my way to visit what is basically a big city where they happen to speak Italian. Venice is magical and like nothing else in the world. Having said that, I really think both are a bit far away for a day trip : (

I'd suggest you take an overnight train one or both ways. You could leave Rome Tiburtina at 22:25 and get to Venice at 5:55. Then leave at 18:33 and get to Rome at 23:05, or else leave at 23:32 and arrive at 7:02.

Don't go out of your way for Milan - DO go out of your way for Venice. I like the overnight trains idea - a full day plus Venice at night.

No question, the obvious choice is VENICE.

DEFINITELY VENICE--hands down--a fabulous city--spend at least 2 days there---<BR><BR>Milan-industrial Fashion city-very expensive with La Scala Opera house==Not worth 1 day---BORING

Unlike some of other posters, I'm a fan of Milan. BUT, in no way can it compare with Venice. In fact, nothing can compare with Venice. I agree with the previous posters who urge you to take the overnight train there! You won't regret it. And be prepared for one of life's great thrills when you emerge from the train station in Venice and see the Grand Canal before you!